The Renters’ Rights Act: What South West Landlords Need to Know
The private rented sector is entering its most significant period of reform in a generation. The Renters’ Rights Act will fundamentally reshape how landlords let and manage property across England — including here in the South West.
For landlords, the changes bring both new responsibilities and new risks, but also opportunities to future-proof portfolios and operate with greater certainty if prepared correctly.
Below, we break down what the Act means in practice, what’s changing, and how South West landlords can protect their investments.
1. The End of Section 21 (“No-Fault” Evictions)
Perhaps the most widely discussed reform is the abolition of Section 21.
Once the Act is fully implemented:
- Landlords will no longer be able to regain possession without a valid reason
- Possession will instead rely on updated Section 8 grounds
- Correct documentation, timing and evidence will be essential
What this means for landlords:
- Poor tenant selection becomes far riskier
- Rent arrears, anti-social behaviour and sale or occupation grounds must be clearly evidenced
- Errors in compliance may invalidate possession claims
Allen Residential insight: Professional referencing, tenancy management and record-keeping will be more important than ever.
2. Assured Shorthold Tenancies Are Being Replaced
The Act will remove fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs).
All tenancies will move to a single system of periodic tenancies, meaning:
- Tenancies will run month-to-month by default
- Tenants can leave with two months’ notice
- Landlords must rely on statutory grounds to regain possession
Allen Residential insight: This change increases flexibility for tenants — but also increases uncertainty for landlords who are not actively managing tenancies or monitoring risk indicators.
3. Stronger Rules Around Rent Increases
Rent increases will be:
- Limited to once per year
- Required to follow a formal notice process
- Subject to challenge if deemed excessive compared to market rent
Allen Residential insight: In high-demand South West locations, landlords should:
- Ensure rents are evidence-based
- Keep records of comparable local properties
- Budget conservatively to avoid disputes and delays
4. The Introduction of a Landlord Ombudsman
All private landlords will be required to:
- Join a mandatory Landlord Ombudsman scheme
- Engage with dispute resolution where tenants raise formal complaints
Allen Residential insight: This creates:
- Greater accountability
- A clear paper trail of landlord conduct
- Potential reputational risk for landlords who do not follow best practice
Proactive communication and professional management will significantly reduce exposure.
5. A New Private Rented Sector Database
Landlords will be required to register themselves and their properties on a national PRS database, confirming:
- Legal compliance
- Property standards
- Management arrangements
Failure to register or inaccuracies may result in:
- Civil penalties
- Restrictions on letting
- Increased scrutiny from local authorities
6. Property Standards and Enforcement Are Tightening
The Act strengthens enforcement around:
- Property condition
- Repairs and maintenance
- Damp and mould issues
- Tenant safety
Local authorities across the South West are expected to take a more proactive enforcement role, particularly in areas with high rental demand.
What South West Landlords Should Be Doing Now
With the direction of travel clear, landlords should focus on preparation rather than reaction.
Practical steps to take now:
âś” Review tenancy agreements and notice procedures
âś” Audit compliance documentation
âś” Strengthen tenant referencing processes
âś” Ensure rents are realistic and defensible
âś” Consider professional management if currently self-managing
Why Professional Letting Support Matters More Than Ever
The Renters’ Rights Act does not make being a landlord impossible — but it does make being an unprepared landlord risky.
In an increasingly regulated environment, professional letting agents offer:
- Up-to-date legal compliance
- Risk management and evidence handling
- Structured communication with tenants
- Protection against costly procedural errors
For many landlords, this will be the difference between a secure investment and an ongoing liability.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Act represents a permanent shift in the balance of the private rented sector. Landlords who adapt early, stay informed and operate professionally will continue to thrive — particularly in strong South West rental markets.
If you would like tailored advice on how these changes affect your property or portfolio, a compliance review, or guidance on professional management options, please feel free to call our Paulton office (01761) 412 300 or Wells office (01749) 672 678
